A chess puzzle is a structured problem or scenario on a chessboard designed to test a player's tactical and strategic abilities. These puzzles present a specific position where the objective is to achieve a goal, such as delivering checkmate, gaining material advantage, or forcing a draw, typically within a set number of moves.

Chess puzzles are widely used by players of all skill levels to improve their calculation, pattern recognition, and decision-making skills. They often feature themes like pins, forks, discovered attacks, and mating combinations. Solving puzzles helps develop critical thinking and enhances a player’s ability to spot opportunities in real games.